Grants and Government Affairs Officer

Grants And Government Affairs Officer

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency is seeking a strategic, innovative, and influential change-agent to serve as its next Grants and Government Affairs Officer. Reporting to the Director of External & Government Affairs, this position is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing the agency's government affairs and grants program, including oversight of staff, and federal and state advocacy strategies. The officer will lead efforts to research, identify, apply for, negotiate, and manage complex federal, state, and local grants, low-interest loans, and other funding opportunities; ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and funding requirements; and provide professional guidance to agency leadership, the board of directors, member agencies, and regional partners. This role also represents the agency at hearings, conferences, and coalition meetings; develops and maintains relationships with legislators, regulators, and grantors; and prepares reports, policy recommendations, and presentations to advance agency priorities. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in public administration, legislative and regulatory processes, funding cycles, and organizational leadership, with the proven ability to foster collaboration, drive strategic initiatives, and secure resources to support IEUA's mission of sustainable water resource management.

Education, training, and experience : Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in political science, public policy, public administration, business administration, or a closely related field, and at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in government affairs and / or grants administration, two of which were at a supervisory or lead level; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred and a master's degree in public policy, public administration, business administration, or a closely related field is highly desirable.

Licenses; certificates; special requirements : A valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the agency's vehicle insurance program.

Skills and abilities : Apply comprehensive knowledge of legislative / regulatory processes, grant administration, public administration practices, and federal / state / local funding requirements to ensure compliance, secure funding, and advance agency objectives. Lead, coach, and manage staff effectively by fostering accountability, collaboration, and professional development, while aligning team performance with organizational goals and positive culture change. Conduct research, analyze complex issues, evaluate alternatives, and prepare clear, persuasive reports and recommendations to support sound decision-making, effective negotiations, and stakeholder engagement. Collaborate and communicate professionally with diverse stakeholdersincluding community members, regulatory agencies, legislative representatives, and funding partnerswhile exercising sound judgment, tact, and diplomacy in sensitive or high-impact matters.